What Does Chepstow Castle Tell Us About Medieval Minds?
Where is Chepstow Castle?
Introduction:
William fitz Ozbern was made earl of Hereford and was given the Welsh March to control. He started building the castle, but died in 1071 after he had built the rectangular keep, which now forms the core of the castle. At the end of the 12th century, the castle was passed on to William Marshall by marriage. He started to improve the fortications, rebuilding the east curtain wall with two towers. In 1245, Chepstows defences had been fortified and the internal accomendations had been improved. A new lower bailey, a twin towered gate house, a strongly defended barbican and additions to the great tower.
Table of Changes Over Time:
1068
1210
1244
1300
Who owned the castle?
William fitz Osbern
William Marshall from the de Clares
Anselm Marshal
Roger Bigod III From the Bigod family, who are very grand nobles
How had they come to own it?
He built it
Married Isabella de Clare and was loyal to the king
Passed down from his father, William Marshal
Passed down from his mother
What do they want to use Chepstow for?
To conquer the welsh kingdom of Gwent
How strong is it?
A large bailey has been built. Castle is made of stone
Added towers with arrow slits, a new wall and an entrance
Added another bailey, more towers and a more secure entrance. Also re-enforced the walls.
Build a wall around the whole of Chepstow. South-east tower has been “smartened” and made fit for visitors.
How comfortable is it to live in?
Not very comfortable
The old hall keep was turned into a fine tower. Windows were made much larger and arches were built.
More rooms. Fine hall range with kitchens and cellars and grand apartments.
What Does Chepstow Castle Tell Us About Medieval Minds?
Where is Chepstow Castle?
Introduction:
William fitz Ozbern was made earl of Hereford and was given the Welsh March to control. He started building the castle, but died in 1071 after he had built the rectangular keep, which now forms the core of the castle. At the end of the 12th century, the castle was passed on to William Marshall by marriage. He started to improve the fortications, rebuilding the east curtain wall with two towers. In 1245, Chepstows defences had been fortified and the internal accomendations had been improved. A new lower bailey, a twin towered gate house, a strongly defended barbican and additions to the great tower.
Table of Changes Over Time:
From the Bigod family, who are very grand nobles
Castle is made of stone
South-east tower has been “smartened” and made fit for visitors.
Fine hall range with kitchens and cellars and grand apartments.